Research Associate - Virology

Job Title: Research AssociateJob Location:  Doddaballapur, Bengaluru, India (https://g.page/FNDRIN) (100% Onsite)Company Overview: Foundation for Neglected Disease Research (FNDR) is a not-for-profit biotech R&D organization dedicated to discovering and developing novel therapeutics, diagnostics, and devices for diseases with a high socio-economic impact. Since its inception in 2014, FNDR has generated a portfolio of therapeutics in tuberculosis, nontuberculous mycobacteria, malaria, dengue, leishmania, serious bacterial infections, fungal infections, COVID-19 and RSV, spanning over early-stage discovery to late-stage clinical trials. FNDR's R&D Centre, which includes state-of-the-art BSL2 and BSL3 laboratories for both in vitro and in vivo research, is in Bengaluru, India. For more information, please visit https://www.fndr.in/.Required Qualifications•    M.Sc./MTech in Virology, Microbiology, Life Sciences, or a related discipline •   1-2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in virology or related cell-based assay work •   Prior BSL-3 working experience/certification strongly preferred•   Proficiency in using MS Office applicationsAbout the RoleFNDR is seeking a highly motivated Virologist to join our research team. The successful candidate will contribute to early-stage discovery, assay development, and translational research projects focused on viral pathogens of public-health importance. This role is suited for individuals looking to build a strong scientific career in applied virology and translational infectious disease research.Key Responsibilities·   Plan, and execute experiments involving BSL-2 and BSL-3 viral pathogens · Perform virological assays including cell culture, plaque assays, TCID50, viral quantification, neutralization tests, and molecular methods (RT-PCR, qPCR)· Support development and validation of in vitro / in vivo models, antiviral screening assays, and mechanistic studies·   Analyse, interpret, and document experimental data; present findings to internal teams            ·   Ensuring strict compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and ethical guidelines for handling of BSL-2 and BSL-3·   Contribute to manuscripts, proposals, patents, and project reports as required·   Maintain lab inventory, order reagents/consumables, and ensure timely maintenance of equipment·   Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks (physical/electronic, e.g., ELN) in line with institutional standardsTechnical and Soft Skills· Hand-on experience in virus propagation, cell culture techniques, and standard molecular biology workflows·   Knowledge of BSL-2/3 laboratory practices and regulatory guidelines·   Excellent documentation, analytical, and communication skills·   Handling experience of laboratory equipment and techniques related to virology·   Knowledge of safety protocols and ethical guidelines in research·   Strong teamwork, time-management, and ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment·   Willingness to work flexible hours when experiments require (e.g., time-sensitive infection assays)CTC Range: Commensurate to experience and negotiable. Interested candidates to share their resume at hr@fndr.in citing *Application for RA-Virology* in the subject line and notice period, current location, current and expected CTC in the body text.